Sports Seattle will become NHL’s 32nd team. Here’s what you should know about expansion franchise December 4, 2018December 4, 2018Kevin Allen, USA TODAYComments Off on Seattle will become NHL’s 32nd team. Here’s what you should know about expansion franchise Seattle has been approved by NHL as league's 32nd team to start 2021-22 season. The NHL will also realign to two 16-team conferences.